Women & Suicide

For every man that dies by suicide, four women will attempt it.

Suicidal ideation is a very real and very troubling symptom of PMDD. An estimated 15% of women with this disorder will attempt an act of suicide in their lifetime. Transgender individuals are at an even greater risk. While the majority of women with PMDD do not follow through on thoughts of self-harm, it is imperative that all women with PMDD receive access to support, care, and intervention when needed.

How It Feels

When acute stress exceeds an individual's ability to cope, thoughts can turn to suicide. PMDD greatly exacerbates the stress of everyday life and can leave women feeling so overwhelmed that suicide seems like their best or only option. PMDD sufferers have shared thoughts like "everyone would be better off without me" and "I don't know how much longer I can do this."

If this describes how you are feeling we want you to know that you are not alone! We've been there and want to support you through this difficult moment. We are here to listen and talk and help you through the storm.

Feeling Overwhelmed?

Our team of peer support volunteers are here to talk.

Research can tell us more

Studies show a clear correlation between the menstrual cycle and non-fatal suicidal behavior. Research also proves that premenstrual dysphoric disorder is not limited to women in specific geographic locations, ethnic groups, or economic status.

Stop the Stigma

Women do not think about, attempt, or die by suicide because they are acting "over-emotional" or seeking attention. Women do these things because stressors are exceeding current coping abilities. These women deserve our love, understanding, and support.

Know the warning signs

Are you concerned that someone you love is considering suicide? Maybe they have:

been isolating

stopped eating

started using more alcohol or drugs

aren't sleeping

Or maybe they are making subtle comments like:

"I can't do this anymore"

"I just make everyone's life harder"

"If anything ever happened to me, you'd look after the kids, right?"

If you are worried about them, talk to them. Ask them if they are thinking about suicide and listen openly to their answer. Be kind and gentle and refrain from making judgmental statements.

It's hard to watch someone we love suffer and it can be scary to learn that they are thinking about suicide. Our Peer Support team is available if you'd like to talk through what's going on, learn how to have a helpful conversation with your loved one, and find out about mental health resources in your community.

Know what help is available and where to find it

At different times in our lives we'll need to lean on different supports. Here are a few different options: